People were more likely to die from COVID-19 in highly polluted areas in England at the start of the pandemic, new research has found.
Analysis by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has found a correlation between pollution and mortality.
However, it found this levelled off in early Mary and can partly be attributed to the outbreak in London where pollution levels are generally higher than the rest of the country.
Cllr Darren Rodwell, Local Government Association transport spokesperson, said: ‘Councils are demonstrating to government why they are a key part of the solution in reducing air pollution, by introducing Clean Air Zones, encouraging the use of electric vehicles with recharging points and promoting cycling.
’This analysis shows why it is vital the Government continues to supports councils to invest in long-term measures to reduce harmful transport emissions such as cycling and walking infrastructure. The forthcoming Spending Review should commit to long-term funding for public transport as well as electric vehicles.’
